What Not to Put in a Garbage Disposal: Common Mistakes and Food Waste Solutions

Garbage disposals are a helpful addition to many kitchens, making cleanup faster and easier. However, they’re not designed to handle all food waste, and knowing what can and can’t go down the drain is critical for keeping your appliance – and your plumbing – in good condition. Misuse can lead to clogs, damaged blades, and even costly repairs.

In Kansas and Missouri, where Anthony Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, & Electric provides top-quality service, we often see preventable issues that could have been avoided with a little more knowledge. To help you make informed choices, here are some common mistakes to avoid and effective solutions for disposing of food waste properly.

What Can You Put in a Garbage Disposal?

Garbage disposals are designed to grind down soft food scraps, making it easier to clean up after meals. However, not all foods are created equal, and understanding what’s safe to send down the drain is the first step to preventing plumbing issues.

Here’s a list of items that are generally safe to put in your garbage disposal:

• Soft Fruits and Vegetables: Small scraps of fruits and veggies such as apple peels, carrot shavings, and cucumber skins can go down the disposal without issue.
• Citrus Peels: Lemon, lime, and orange peels are not only safe but can also help freshen up your disposal. Just be sure to cut them into smaller pieces first.
• Small Amounts of Cooked Meat: While it’s best to avoid bones or large chunks, small amounts of finely chopped cooked meat can be safely processed.
• Coffee Grounds (in moderation): While some believe coffee grounds help clean the disposal, use them sparingly as they can build up and form a sludge-like consistency over time.

What to Put in a Garbage Disposal for Smell

To keep your garbage disposal smelling fresh, consider using a combination of natural options like:

• Ice Cubes: Drop a few ice cubes into the disposal to help knock off residue from the blades.
• Vinegar: Ice cubes made from white vinegar can be especially effective.
• Citrus Peels: As mentioned earlier, these not only grind well but also leave a pleasant scent.

What Not to Put in a Garbage Disposal

Using your garbage disposal incorrectly can lead to clogged drains, dull blades, and even the need for a full replacement. Some items may seem harmless but can cause serious issues.

Here’s a comprehensive list of what to avoid:

• Grease, Oil, or Fat: These substances solidify as they cool, leading to clogged pipes.
• Fibrous Vegetables: Avoid celery, asparagus, and corn husks, as their stringy fibers can tangle around the disposal’s blades.
• Potato Peels: Starchy foods like potato peels can form a paste that clogs both the disposal and the drain.
• Eggshells: The membrane layer inside eggshells can wrap around the blades, while the hard shell particles can stick in the pipes.
• Pasta and Rice: These expand when in contact with water, making them a major clog risk.
• Bones, Seeds, or Pits: Hard items like chicken bones, fruit pits, or seeds are too tough for the blades and can damage the disposal.
• Non-Food Items: Paper, plastic, or any non-food materials should never go down the disposal.

How to Properly Dispose of Food Waste at Home

If you’re looking for alternatives to your garbage disposal, consider the following solutions:

• Composting: Composting is a sustainable way to dispose of fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, eggshells, and more. Set up a compost bin in your backyard or use a countertop compost collector if you have limited space.
• Trash Disposal: For items that are unsuitable for the garbage disposal (such as bones, oils, or fats), dispose of them in your regular trash bin. To minimize odors, seal food waste in biodegradable bags.
• Recycling Cooking Oil: Many local recycling centers in Kansas and Missouri accept used cooking oil. Check your local community guidelines for drop-off locations.
• Freeze Before Discarding: For items like fish scraps or other food that may smell, store them in the freezer until trash day.
• Use a Food Recycler: Countertop food recyclers can dehydrate and grind up food scraps, reducing the volume and odor of waste.

How to Maintain Your Garbage Disposal

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your garbage disposal in good condition. Here are some quick tips to help you avoid unnecessary repairs:

• Run Cold Water: Always run cold water while using the disposal to help solidify any grease and wash food particles through the drain.
• Clean the Blades: Periodically run ice cubes through the disposal to clean and sharpen the blades.
• Avoid Overloading: Feed small amounts of waste gradually to avoid overwhelming the system.
• Use a Disposal Cleaner: Purchase a biodegradable disposal cleaner or make a homemade mix of baking soda and vinegar to clean the unit once a month.
• Check the Blades: If your disposal isn’t grinding as effectively, it may be time to call a professional to inspect the blades.

Final Thoughts

Proper use and maintenance of your garbage disposal are essential for keeping your kitchen plumbing in great shape. By understanding what can and cannot go into your disposal, you can prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your unit. If you’re experiencing issues or need expert advice on kitchen plumbing, the professionals at Anthony are here to help. 

Remember, a little prevention goes a long way in protecting your garbage disposal and ensuring the smooth operation of your home’s plumbing system.